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The Portable Benjamin Franklin: A Timeless Collection of Wisdom and Wit

Rod Ward

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Published in The Portable Benjamin Franklin (Penguin Classics)

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In the vast tapestry of American history, few individuals have left an imprint as profound and multi-faceted as Benjamin Franklin. Renowned as a scientist, inventor, statesman, author, and diplomat, Franklin embodied the spirit of an Enlightenment polymath, whose intellectual curiosity extended to virtually every realm of human endeavor.

His writings, ranging from political tracts to witty essays, scientific treatises to humorous anecdotes, offer a timeless treasure trove of wisdom, observation, and wit. The Portable Benjamin Franklin, a masterful compilation published by Penguin Classics, captures the essence of Franklin's multifaceted genius in a single, accessible volume.

The Portable Benjamin Franklin (Penguin Classics)

by Benjamin Franklin

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1241 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	551 pages

A Literary Tapestry of Reason and Enlightenment

The Portable Benjamin Franklin is a comprehensive anthology that encompasses the full spectrum of Franklin's literary output. It includes excerpts from his most influential works, such as Poor Richard's Almanack, The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, and his seminal political writings on the American Revolution.

Editor J. A. Leo Lemay, a renowned Franklin scholar, has meticulously curated the collection, offering a representative sampling of Franklin's varied intellectual pursuits. Each selection is carefully placed in chronological order, allowing readers to trace the evolution of Franklin's thought throughout his remarkable life.

The Wit and Wisdom of Poor Richard

No discussion of Franklin's literary legacy would be complete without mention of Poor Richard's Almanack, an annual publication that Franklin produced for over a quarter of a century. In its pages, Franklin dispensed practical advice, homespun wisdom, and sharp witticisms that became synonymous with his name.

A Page From Benjamin Franklin's Poor Richard's Almanack The Portable Benjamin Franklin (Penguin Classics)

The Portable Benjamin Franklin includes a generous selection of maxims and proverbs from Poor Richard's Almanack. These pithy sayings, infused with Franklin's characteristic humor and common sense, continue to resonate with readers today:

"Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise."
"A penny saved is a penny earned."
"God helps those who help themselves."

The Autobiographical Journey of an American Icon

The Portable Benjamin Franklin also features extensive excerpts from Franklin's autobiography, one of the most influential and captivating autobiographical works in American literature. Written in the twilight of his life, Franklin's autobiography offers an intimate glimpse into the mind and experiences of a true American icon.

With characteristic candor and wit, Franklin recounts his humble beginnings in colonial Boston, his rise to prominence as a printer and inventor, and his pivotal role in the founding of the United States. The autobiography is a testament to Franklin's resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of reason.

Political Persuasion and the Birth of a Nation

Benjamin Franklin's literary legacy extends far beyond his philosophical reflections and witty sayings. He was a master political writer whose ideas and penmanship played a crucial role in shaping the course of American history.

A Portion Of The Declaration Of Independence, Signed By Benjamin Franklin The Portable Benjamin Franklin (Penguin Classics)

The Portable Benjamin Franklin includes a comprehensive selection of Franklin's political writings, including his seminal essay "On the Causes and Cures of War," his impassioned pleas for colonial unity during the Stamp Act crisis, and his contributions to the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

Franklin's political writings are characterized by their clarity of thought, persuasive power, and unwavering commitment to the principles of liberty and self-government.

The Enduring Legacy of a Literary Giant

The Portable Benjamin Franklin is a testament to the extraordinary breadth and impact of Benjamin Franklin's literary output. It is a collection that transcends time, offering a window into the mind of an American genius whose wisdom, wit, and political acumen continue to inspire and inform readers today.

Whether you are a seasoned Franklin enthusiast or a newcomer to his works, The Portable Benjamin Franklin is the perfect to the literary legacy of a true American icon. Its comprehensive selection of writings, insightful commentary, and vivid historical context make it an essential addition to any personal library.

So delve into the pages of The Portable Benjamin Franklin and discover the timeless wisdom, wit, and political insights of a man who helped shape the course of American history. Benjamin Franklin's literary legacy is a rich tapestry that will continue to enrich and inspire generations to come.

The Portable Benjamin Franklin (Penguin Classics)

by Benjamin Franklin

4.7 out of 5